Rare chance to become custodian of a stunning Victorian villa
Owned by a well-known interior architect, this character home has retained its period features while being infused with elements of modern living.
Built in 1883 by prominent builder Friedrich Dechert, this stunning Victorian villa at 16 Marlborough St in College Park boasts a rich history and has been home to only a handful of families.
Its current resident is former film production designer-turned-high-end interior architect Vicki Niehus and her family.
Best known for her work in the 1996 film ‘Shine’ starring Geoffrey Rush, Ms Niehus said the most stunning feature about the home is its grand scale.
“With ceilings that are more than 4m high and rooms with big proportions, it’s truly grand,” Ms Niehus said.
“It’s also one of the few houses that hasn’t had an extension added to it.
“What we use as our kitchen and living area were the servants’ quarters and it still has the old bells in place. Our outdoor area is where the old the stables were.”
The four-bedroom character home, ‘Olivecombe’, positioned on a sought-after boulevard has retained its period features while being infused with elements of modern living.
With grand formal dining and sitting rooms, the home is perfect for entertaining friends and family.
The master bedroom is equally spacious with a dressing room that will delight many. It also leads on to a private decked courtyard with an outdoor shower. The home comes with a study and as well as a wine cellar.
The outdoor area is as impressive as the inside. The mature gardens have been designed by garden designer Virginia Kennett and apart from lush lawns, boasts giant cycads, dragon trees, frangipani, ornamental pears and citrus trees.
“The home is ideal for a large family. Since our kids have left home, we are looking to downsize. It’s a really happy home with good vibes,” Ms Niehus said.
“The best part is that it’s really close to the city – it’s like Centennial Park in Sydney or East Melbourne.
“We are going to miss it an awful lot and there will be tears when we leave.”
The house has been presented to market by Sally Cameron of Toop & Toop Real Estate.
Price: Contact agent.
Agent: Toop+Toop Real Estate, Sally Cameron 0412 915 108.
Land size: 1484sqm.
Originally published as Rare chance to become custodian of a stunning Victorian villa